It’s here! The summer season has arrived, and a time to lighten up.
Summer food is meant to be lighter, as produce is at its peak in freshness and flavor. Can you smell the outdoor grills? Outdoor activity kicks up and we want to feel lighter and healthier. A great way to begin is to add more fruits and vegetables into our diets. How many times do we hear that phrase? Sometimes we need a little help with ways of incorporating more fruits and veggies into our diets while feeling full and satisfied, and making it quick and easy to prepare. In particular, our bodies need ‘greens’ each day for greater health benefits. Keep it clean, and purchase organic when possible.
If you don’t have time to make soups or salads, give this drink a try. This is a great recipe for those on the go, and for any meal or snack idea. Get the kids involved in making it, and hopefully they will want to give it a try and taste it. The drink is ‘green’ because it is the most dominant of all of the food colors. Have fun with it! Remember Dr. Seuss’ ‘Green Eggs and Ham’…?
If you prefer spinach, blueberries, mango, peaches or avocado, mix it up. The banana, avocado and almond milk will provide the creamy texture as well as vitamins and minerals that provide us with fuel. If you would like to add a little more protein, add a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter. The chia will hold the ‘full’ belly feeling a little longer.
Creamy Green Shake
1 cup of chopped and packed organic Kale (stem included!)
1 cup strawberries
1 banana
1 apple
1 cup almond milk
½ cup water
1 packet of stevia (if you prefer more ‘sweet’)
3-4 ice cubes
1 teaspoon of chia seeds
Wash all fruits and veggies and chop. Add to a blender and blend until liquefied and creamy. Pour, drink, share, and enjoy!